This paper details U.S. Research Centers in Minority Institutions (RCMI) Community Engagement Cores (CECs): (1) unique and cross-cutting components, focus areas, specific aims, and target populations; and (2) approaches utilized to build or sustain trust towards community participation in research. A mixed-method data collection approach was employed for this cross-sectional study of current or previously funded RCMIs. A total of 18 of the 25 institutions spanning 13 U.S. states and territories participated. CEC specific aims were to support community engaged research (94%); to translate and disseminate research findings (88%); to develop partnerships (82%); and to build capacity around community research (71%). Four open-ended questions, qualitative analysis, and comparison of the categories led to the emergence of two supporting themes: (1) establishing trust between the community-academic collaborators and within the community and (2) building collaborative relationships. An overarching theme, building community together through trust and meaningful collaborations, emerged from the supporting themes and subthemes. The RCMI institutions and their CECs serve as models to circumvent the historical and current challenges to research in communities disproportionately affected by health disparities. Lessons learned from these cores may help other institutions who want to build community trust in and capacities for research that addresses community-related health concerns.

Background: Cancer anorexia-cachexia syndrome (CAS) is a multifactorial condition that is highly prevalent in advanced cancer patients and associated with significant reduction in functional performance, reduction in quality of life, and increased mortality. Currently, no medications are approved for this indication. Recently, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) released a rapid recommendation suggesting that low-dose olanzapine once daily may be used to treat cancer cachexia. Many questions still exist on how to use olanzapine for this indication in clinical practice. The objective of this review is to identify existing knowledge on the use of olanzapine for CAS. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted to identify the primary literature that involved olanzapine for anorexia and cachexia in cancer patients between 2000 and 2023. Results: Seven articles were identified and are discussed here, including two randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled studies, one randomized comparative study, two prospective open-label studies, one retrospective chart review, and one case report. Conclusions: Low dose olanzapine (2.5–5 mg once daily) may be useful in the treatment of CAS for increasing appetite, reducing nausea and vomiting, and promoting weight gain. Further large-scale multi-center randomized placebo-controlled studies will be needed to investigate the impact of olanzapine on weight change in CAS patients.

Maternal mortality and morbidity are critical health challenges in the U.S., and building the perinatal workforce is a key to providing high-quality maternal medical care and services. Texas Southern University (TSU), home to a Doctor of Pharmacy program, launched the first Maternal Health Education and Research Training (MHERT) program to educate a cohort of high school, pharmacy, and health sciences students. Aiming to raise awareness of maternal health issues, build research skills, and promote action-based solutions. MHERT integrated online self-paced interactive lessons with hands-on research or community projects. Topics included maternal health epidemiology, causes of morbidity and mortality, research methods, literature reviews, and the development of action plans addressing maternal health challenges. Assessment tools included quizzes, open-ended reflection responses, training surveys, and course evaluations. Running from 3 June to 26 July 2024, the program enrolled 22 students. All participants completed both course components. Course evaluations showed strong and consistent satisfaction with the program, with teaching effectiveness rated at 95% and 96% for mid-program and final evaluations, respectively. MHERT enhanced participants’ understanding of maternal health, improved research skills, and encouraged community engagement and interdisciplinary collaboration. It offers a scalable model to strengthen public health education among high school, pharmacy, and health sciences students.

Mobile mammography outreach was evaluated across different sites and counties in Texas from March 2022 to November 2024. Among 1,295 scheduled appointments during 56 mobile mammogram events, 64.3% were completed, 25.1% were no-shows, and 10.6% were cancelled. Federally qualified health centers accounted for the highest volume (701 schedules, 418 services provided) and the highest share of missed appointments. County-level patterns mirrored overall rates. No significant monthly trends were observed ( p > 0.45). Qualitative feedback highlighted the role of faith-based outreach in trust building. Embedding services in established workflows and implementing reminder systems and transportation support may enhance uptake and reduce disproportionate outcomes.

Objectives: We assessed the impact of obesity and racial disparities on preterm birth (PTB) in the United States and sought to determine whether obesity widens the racial-ethnic disparity gap in preterm birth with a focus on non-Hispanic Black and White women. Methods: Using birth data for the years 2014–2019 made publicly available by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and...

Background: Predominantly African American communities continue to experience challenges in cancer prevention, screening, and outcomes. This study explored perceptions, experiences, and challenges related to cancer prevention and screening among adults recruited through a community engagement initiative in a predominantly African American urban community in Houston, Texas. Methods: Four virtual focus groups were conducted between May 2021 and August 2022 with 35 participants. Sessions addressed prostate cancer, breast cancer, and general cancer prevention. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis, and findings were reported in accordance with COREQ guidelines. Final themes were interpreted using the Socioecological Model. Results: Four interconnected themes reflected individual/interpersonal, healthcare/organizational, community, and structural/policy factors: (1) personal and family experiences and social support; (2) healthcare experiences and trust; (3) structural and financial challenges; and (4) community engagement, education, and advocacy. Family support, trusted providers, community resources, and culturally relevant education facilitated prevention engagement, while negative healthcare experiences, insurance restrictions, costs, and complicated healthcare navigation created challenges. Conclusions: Cancer prevention engagement was shaped by interacting influences across socioecological levels. Multilevel, culturally responsive approaches that strengthen trust and community partnerships while addressing financial, healthcare access, and structural challenges may improve cancer prevention and screening engagement.